A validation of the Pseudoscience Endorsement Scale and assessment of the cognitive correlates of pseudoscientific beliefs

Abstract

Pseudoscientific beliefs are widespread and have potentially harmful consequences. Being able to identify their presence and recognize the factors characterizing their endorsement is crucial to understanding their prevalence. In this preregistered study, we validated the English version of the Pseudoscience Endorsement Scale and investigated its correlates. A group of volunteers (n = 510), representative of the U.S. population, responded to this scale and to questionnaires measuring the presence of paranormal, denialist, and conspiracist beliefs. The validation resulted in a shorter version of the scale, the sPES. Participants also completed a scientific literacy questionnaire as well as bullshit detection and cognitive reflection tests. Scores obtained on the questionnaires corresponding to different unwarranted beliefs correlated with each other, suggesting a possible common basis. Scientific knowledge, cognitive reflection scores, and bullshit sensitivity were negatively associated with scores on the pseudoscience scale. Of note, bullshit receptivity was the main contributor in a model predicting pseudoscience endorsement.